Delivered Nov 1, 2017, in Calgary AB
Shamanism is a complex term
I often say that I don't like using the word "shamanism" unless I have an hour to explain what I mean by it.
The word, and what it stands for, speak to profound and deep aspects of what it means to be a human being.
But shamanic knowledge, traditions, and practices can't be discussed without an awareness of the current and historical realities of colonization and the oppression of indigenous peoples.
That's the short answer.
Happily, I did get an hour to explain what I mean by it. The video below is my longer answer.
About the Lecture:
A discussion of shamanism raises important social, political, cultural and personal questions. Understanding what shamanism is, and what aspect of it we’re speaking about helps clarify how we might meet some of those questions.
This lecture explores shamanism as a universal archetypal phenomenon, rather than an anthropological one. Like all archetypal forces, the shamanic archetype is present, and can be activated in all people, regardless of the cultural framework or community support for those experiences.
Many of us are long-separated from our ancestors’ wisdom teachings about how to meet and nurture the shamanic archetype. We need cultural models that allow the healing power of the archetype to express itself within us, while honoring the current and historical realities of colonization.
~ How can western people who feel a soul-calling to nature-based spirituality, and the embodied mysticism and ritual practices connected with “shamanism,” walk that path with respect and integrity?
~ How can we do so in a way that serves our community?
The connections between the seen and unseen worlds have been largely ignored and neglected by dominant western culture. Creating opportunities for the resurgence of the shamanic archetype can help us heal those divisions and restore a healthy relationship with the ancestors, the spirits of the land, and the rest of our sacred living world.
About the Community Healers’ Council in Calgary, and Community Healers' Intensives in other cities
This lecture is part of an ongoing series that explores some of the ideas behind the experiential activities of the Calgary Community Healers’ Council and the Community Healers' Intensives that are offered in other cities.
The Community Healers’ Council and Intensives are a learning laboratory for ritual practitioners. We use the tools of council, divination, constellation, dreamwork, and ceremony to deepen our connections to our sacred living world. Everyone is welcome.
Learn more about the Calgary Community Healers' Council.